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Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet is a dish that transports me back to my family’s busy weeknights, where simplicity and flavor collided in one big skillet. It’s a delightful dish that brings together hearty ground beef, beans, and a melty layer of cheese, making it a comforting meal perfect for any table. Whether it’s a quick dinner after school or a last-minute meal for friends, this recipe checks all the boxes: delicious, filling, and stress-free.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This recipe shines for a multitude of reasons. First off, it’s incredibly quick and easy to throw together, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. It hits all the right notes for busy families or anyone looking for hassle-free meal prep. The combination of lean ground beef and nourishing beans provides protein without being heavy, while the cheesy topping elevates the dish to comfort food status. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, using common pantry staples that won’t break the bank.
“This was a hit at our family dinner! Easy to make and even easier to clean up. Will definitely be adding it to our regular rotation!” – A satisfied home cook.
Your Easy Cooking Guide
Making Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet is simpler than you might think. You’ll begin by browning the ground beef, then mix in the flavorful taco seasoning and water. It’s all about layering the flavors, so you’ll add in the other ingredients and let everything simmer. Finally, don’t forget to top it all off with cheese and let it melt under a lid. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a full-fledged meal ready to serve!
Everything You Need for This Recipe
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need for this tasty dish:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 can beans (black or pinto, drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 2 cups ready rice (or precooked rice)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, green onions
Feel free to swap the beans for your favorite variety or use brown rice if you prefer a healthier option.
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Step-by-Step Guide
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Don’t worry about getting it too brown; just ensure it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Season it up: Add the taco seasoning and water to the beef. Stir until everything is combined.
- Mix in additions: Toss in the beans, corn, and ready rice. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cheesy time: Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, then cover the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted.
- Final touches: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like sour cream and salsa.
Best Way to Serve
To elevate your Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a splash of salsa right before serving. Fresh green onions or chopped cilantro can add a lovely touch of color and flavor. It pairs well with a simple side salad or some tortilla chips for crunch. For those extra hungry moments, some warm tortillas on the side can turn this dish into a delightful taco night!
Keeping Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet Fresh Longer
Storing your Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet is straightforward! Allow any leftovers to cool before transferring them to an airtight container. This dish can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just portion it out in freezer-safe containers, and it will last up to three months. When reheating, be sure to heat it thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Pro chef tips
For the best results, choose leaner ground beef for a healthier option, and don’t skimp on seasoning—feel free to adjust the taco seasoning to your taste. If you want to add more vegetables, diced bell peppers or chopped spinach can be delicious additions. Lastly, if you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Creative twists
Why stick to the traditional when you can switch things up? Try adding different proteins, like shredded chicken or turkey, for a refreshing flavor. Going vegetarian? Replace the meat with extra beans and some diced zucchini. Lastly, why not experiment with different cheeses? Pepper jack or even a sprinkle of feta can bring a unique twist to this comforting skillet.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
This Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Can I use brown rice instead of ready rice?
Absolutely! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as brown rice will take longer to cook than the pre-cooked variety.
Is this dish safe for leftovers?
Yes, as long as you store it in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking and reheat it to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
This recipe for Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet not only brings comfort and flavor to the table but is also flexible and family-friendly. Give it a try and make it your own!
Print
Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Beef
Description
A quick and easy dish that combines lean ground beef, beans, and a melty layer of cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 can beans (black or pinto, drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 2 cups ready rice (or precooked rice)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, green onions
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning and water to the beef. Stir until combined.
- Toss in the beans, corn, and ready rice. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, then cover the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot with optional toppings.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator, or freeze for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: taco, beef, skillet, easy dinner, family meal
